Million Kina Goroka airport is now open

Goroka town came to a standstill today as residents came to witness the opening of its million Kina asset, which will be a boost for tourism not only for the province but the Highlands region.

The new airport facility includes a new airport terminal and the upgrade of the runway, fencing and new fire engines funded by the Asian Development Bank and the PNG Government at K111 million.

The event today began with the traditional wash down of the Fokker 70 aircraft, under the command of Captain Francis Pohonhelan, into Goroka.

The new airport terminal as well as the upgraded runway was done under the Civil Aviation Development Infrastructure Program (CADIP).

CADIP, which commenced in 2009, aims at redeveloping and revitalising the 22 national airports to ensure safety and security compliance to CASA PNG and ICAO certification requirements.

Civil Aviation Minister Alfred Manasseh says the program has contributed immensely towards institutional strengthening and capacity building of state aviation entities.

It will also look to support the National Weather Service under the Transport Department.

The airside works include the extension of the runway to 1,900 metres to enable jets to land, widening of the runway strip to 150 metres, resealing of the secondary runway, general aviation apron and associated taxiways.

There were also improvements done to the airside drainage system and the installation of airfield lighting and Precision Approach Path Indicators (PAPI) lights.

The landside works include the new terminal, refurbished fire station and a new power house with two generator sets.

A new airport control tower will also be constructed in July to enhance air navigation.

Prime Minister Peter O'Neill says the country cannot grow without infrastructure, calling on the people to stop the mentality of compensation claims, which hinder development.

He later proceeded to cut the ribbon and reveal the plaque of the new facility as the crowd watched on.

Locals spoke highly of the new airport, which they say will boost tourism in Goroka.

Author: 
Sally Pokiton